These are random shots both in and around Cairo. From listening to "Happy Birthday" Cairo style to belly dancing... not me, but one of Cairo's most talented dancers I've been told.

Cairo offers many things. It's beauty and ugly are so extreme. We visited 2 spots where belly dancers performed and they couldn't have been more different. One was less touristy than these photographed where about 5 came out separately. Each one was so different. One guy at our table worked for UNICEF and commented on how many of the dancers are Iraqi refugees and some prostitute themselves on the side. This is because they are viewed as second class citizens in Egypt and their job opportunities are few. This along with my trip to a night club called Africana where tourists come in to find local prostitutes (mostly refugees from surrounding countries) left me feeling like I'd lost my innocence as a tourist. Like I had been let in on a secret that was supposed to remain hidden. A truth. I teared up and had to leave early... but it remains with me, causing a desire for action.

But as my pictures share, Cairo has many beautiful things to offer. Both historic and contemporary. But I couldn't leave out the truth as I know it. Behind every beautiful picture lies a hidden truth. This is true in any place in the world, person or society.

Comments

hershell WEST
on Dec 29, 2009 at 09:01PM

I have enjoyed reading your travel blog. Notwithstanding the not so picturesque description of young refugee women having to work as prostitutes. I look forward to more of your blogs in the upcoming year. Be safe and have a wonderful time throughout your travels. Miss you much.